schengen tourist vs business visa

What are you looking for?

Business / tourism / visitor visa.

A Schengen visa is required if you intend to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180 day period for business, visitor or tourist purposes.

Visa needed?

Entry clearance requirements depend on the citizenship of the applicant.

We are pleased to confirm that persons holding a US passport do not require a visa for the Schengen Member States, provided that the duration of their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180 day period and provided that no economic activity is being pursued. If you are not a US passport holder, please check our country list to see if you need a visa: country list

Where and how to apply?

German consular services are available throughout the USA. Customers will need to schedule an appointment via the service provider BLS International (except Consulate General Atlanta).

If you live in the jurisdiction of the Consulate General in Atlanta, please make sure to schedule an appointment in order to apply for a Schengen visa directly at the consulate (not via BLS).

Click below to find out where to submit your application and to learn about any specific application procedures. Due to local particularities handling and processing may vary slightly among the German Missions involved: Consulate Finder

Please note processing time of minimum 2 weeks. In some cases processing time may take up to 4 weeks plus additional business days for mailing your documents. Therefore make sure to schedule an appointment as early as possible before your intended trip to Germany.

In order to apply for a visa, it is not necessary to use services of an agency or service provider for facilitation. Also, some of such agencies provide false claims and information regarding the visa process. The German Missions are only cooperating with BLS International in the US.

Please be aware that the submission of forged documents and/or itineraries can lead to the rejection of the visa application.

Under certain circumstances you can mail in your application to the service provider BLS International . If you live in the consular jurisdiction of the consulate in Atlanta, you might mail in your application there if you qualify .

What do I need to fill out and bring?

• Online Schengen Visa Application Form
• Declaration of Accuracy
• Visa Photo Examples
• Information on Data Protection ​​​​​​​

Which documents are required?

• Schengen Visa
• Schengen Visa ( EU /EEA spouse, parent or child)
• Schengen Visa (German spouse, parent or child)

Additional content

Medical Health Insurance

Information on Medical Health Insurance when applying for a visa.

• Top of page

Schengen Business Visa

If you are traveling primarily to conduct business, you should apply for a Schengen business visa.

What is a Schengen Business Visa?

• Schengen Business Visa is a kind of short stay (Type C) visa allowing you access to the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for business purposes.

Required Documents for Schengen Business Visa

• Copy of the valid trade license of the company in your resident country.
• Invitation letter from the company/authority in your destination country, including their complete address, also presenting the nature and length of the travel period, and/or:
• Information on the event/trade fair/congress you will be joining in your destination country, including detailed information regarding the host/event organizer, including their complete address, event length, and justification for your participation.
• If fair observer: relevant information on trade fair you will be attending, in the form of tickets/confirmation letter/invoice indicating valid status as trade fair exhibitor.
• Materials expressing the state of trade relations between your country of residence and the country in which you will be conducting business.

Eligibility: Who Can Apply

• Nationals of a third country excluded from visa-free access or visas on arrival to the Schengen area who have a legitimate, valid, and documented reason for entering a Schengen state to conduct business are eligible to apply for a Schengen Business Visa.

How to Apply for Business Schengen Visa

• To apply for a Business Schengen Visa, determine the Schengen country where you will be spending the most time on your trip. You will apply for the Business Schengen Visa through that country’s consulate.
• Select “ Business ” as the purpose of the journey.
• Determine how many “ Entries ” to the Schengen area you need.
• Gather your Basic Required Documents and  the documents required for a Business Visa.
• Fill out your   Schengen Visa Application Form . Different Schengen countries provide different ways of accessing applications; you might have to use an online application portal or fill out a print application by hand.
• Pay the application fee (standard fee for adults is 80 Euros). You will likely have to submit a service payment with your visa application. This is a separate cost from the visa fee, which you will likely pay in person, at your subsequent interview appointment at a Visa Application Center. Please note that these fees are non-refundable.
• Submit your application.
• Schedule an interview appointment. Interviews are conducted in person either at the embassy or the consulate of the country you are applying to, or at a Visa Application Center associated with the consulate of the country you are applying to.

When to Apply for Schengen Business Visa 

• You should apply for a Business Schengen Visa at least 15 days prior to the day you intend to travel, and no earlier than 6 months before you leave.

Where to Apply 

• You should apply for the Schengen Visa through the embassy or the consulate of the country you are travelling to in the Schengen area, or through a Visa Application Center associated with the consulate of the country.
• Suppose you are traveling to multiple countries in the Schengen area. In that case, you should apply through the embassy, the consulate or the associated Visa Application Center for the country in which you will spend the most time. And in case you plan to spend an equal period of time in those multiple countries, then you need to apply at the embassy, the consulate or the associated Visa Application Center of the country where you will arrive first.

Processing Time for Business Schengen Visa

• The processing time for a Schengen Business Visa is generally about two weeks (15 days). In rare cases, consulates can take anywhere from 30-60 days to render a decision on an application.

If you are applying for a Schengen Visa, Travel Medical Insurance is mandatory. To simplify your application process, Insurte, partners with leading European Insurance Companies operating under EU regulations provide Travel Medical Insurances. If you wish to proceed, please click below:

Schengen Tourist Visa

• What is a Schengen Tourist Visa?

The Schengen tourist visa is an official travel document that permits the holder free movement across all internal air and sea borders within the Schengen Area. It is also known as a “short-stay visa.” Many foreign nationals planning to travel to the Schengen Area for tourism are required to obtain a Schengen Tourist Visa which permits the holder to engage in tourism, business, or family visits that last up to 90 days. 

Millions of travelers enter the Schengen Area each year for tourism. Consisting of 29 countries, including nearly all European Union (EU) countries, except for Ireland and Cyprus, and some non-EU countries such as Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, the Schengen Area is one of the busiest tourist destinations in the world. 

After obtaining a Schengen tourist visa, travelers can enjoy the diverse cities, cuisine, and incredible natural beauty across the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period . The 180-day period of validity begins the day the traveler enters the Schengen Area. 

Schengen tourist visas are available as single-entry or multiple-entry. A multiple-entry visa allows the holder to exit and reenter the Schengen Area numerous times during the 180-day period, provided they do not remain in the Area for more than 90 days. All travelers holding a Schengen tourist visa must be sure to exit the Schengen Area before their visa expires to avoid any legal consequences.

• Table of contents

Who Needs a Schengen Tourist Visa?

A valid passport, a complete visa application form, an icao-compliant photograph, valid medical insurance, supporting documents, after submitting your application, where to apply, when to apply, visa processing time, schengen tourist visa fees.

Nationals of many countries worldwide are eligible to obtain a Schengen tourist visa to experience all the wonderful sights that Europe hast to offer prior to entering the Schengen Area. This includes most countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The following is the full list of countries whose nationals must obtain a Schengen tourist visa: 

Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Belarus, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burma/myanmar, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Comoros, Congo, Cote d'ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Mauritania, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

The EU currently has visa-free agreements with 61 non-EU countries, two special administrative regions (Hong Kong and Macao), and one territorial authority (Taiwan). Countries with visa-free agreements include the United States, Canada, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Other countries, like Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, and Georgia, have visa facilitation agreements with the EU, which simplify the process of obtaining an EU travel visa.

Required Documents

All travelers seeking to obtain a Schengen tourist visa must adhere to the Schengen visa requirements in order for their application to be processed successfully. 

The following are the documents required for the tourist Schengen visa application process:

The applicant’s passport must be valid for at least three (3) months after the final date of departure from the Schengen Area. For holders of a multiple-entry visa, this is the date of departure from the last country visited. 

The Schengen tourist visa application form can be found online and should be completed with all the relevant personal, travel, and contact details

The ICAO guidelines are detailed. For example, they stipulate that photographs must be at most six (6) months old, 35-40 mm wide, and capture the head and shoulders of the applicant so that the face takes up 70-80% of the photo. Other guidelines will apply and can be found on the official website

All applicants must have medical insurance that is valid for the duration of their stay in the Schengen Area. Insurance should cover any medical appointments or expenses, and more serious cases requiring hospitalization or repatriation.

While these documents may vary depending on the applicant’s unique circumstances, they generally consist of documents that show the applicant’s purpose of staying in the Schengen Area. This might include proof of financial subsistence and proper accommodation while in the Area. Other supporting documents may include proof of intent to return to the country of origin within the allotted validity period for the tourist visa. It is recommended that the applicant provide documents showing ties to their home country such as proof of family members, a job, properties, or an established business.

Other requirements for the Schengen tourist visa might apply depending on the applicant’s nationality, their situation, and the purpose of their trip to the Schengen Area. There may also be slight differences in the required materials depending on the specific processes of the embassy or consulate of the country they plan to visit. More information about this can be found below. 

It’s important for applicants to verify the list of required documents and materials with the local embassy, consulate, or visa application center where they plan to submit the application.

Application Process

Fortunately, for those who need to apply for a Schengen Area tourist visa in advance, the process is fairly straightforward and can be completed within as little as 15 days. 

The following is the basic process all applicants will follow to complete the Schengen tourist visa application:

The Schengen tourist visa application form can be found online and should be completed to the best of the applicant’s ability. All sections must be completed diligently and accurately.

Applicants must ensure they have all the required documents including a valid passport, an ICAO-compliant photograph, and any required supporting documents demonstrating that their purpose of stay is tourism. Required materials may vary depending on the location of the application submission. Country-specific requirements can be found online on the various official websites.

Most applicants will be required to schedule and attend an official appointment at the embassy, consulate, or visa application center where they will submit their application. It’s important to bring all the required documents to this appointment and be on time.

Visa fees are a requirement for processing any Schengen Tourist visa. The fees will vary slightly for some nationalities. Information on all fees can be found below. The method of payment will vary depending on the embassy, consulate, or visa application center where the application is submitted, so applicants should be prepared with the correct form of payment.

During the processing period, applicants should be prepared to provide any additional information or documents as requested by the immigration authorities or visa center team.

Once the Schengen tourist visa is received, the traveler can proceed with their travel plans to Europe. They must ensure they enter the Schengen Area through the country they applied through or maintain their travel plans if visiting several countries.

Applications for the Schengen Tourist Visa must be submitted at the embassy or consulate of the country the applicant intends to visit. As a rule of thumb, if the travel itinerary includes more than one country, the applicant will submit their application at the embassy or consulate of the country where they plan to stay the longest. If they plan to visit multiple countries for the same duration in each place, they can submit their application to the embassy or consulate of the first country they will travel to. 

Alternatively, applicants may be required to submit their application and supporting documents at a visa application center (VAC) or visa service center in their home country. Some applicants may be able to complete their application online, depending on the country where they plan to submit. This will depend on the country in which the applicant legally resides and the systems in place in that location. 

It’s important for applicants to verify the correct method of application submission before moving forward with the process.

The application for the Schengen tourist visa must be submitted at least 15 days before the intended date of arrival in the Schengen Area. Applicants who want to submit their application materials early can do so up to six (6) months before traveling. 

In most cases, the applicant will attend a visa appointment to submit their application. Otherwise, they may be able to complete the process online. Either way, it is advised to begin the process well in advance of the intended date of travel to avoid any unforeseen delays.

The Schengen tourist visa processing time varies depending on the applicant’s unique situation, nationality, and the purpose of their stay. However, the typical processing time for the visa application is around 15 days. Processing can take up to 45 days in some cases where more information or documents are needed from the applicant. 

In some cases, family members of EU/EEA citizens may be eligible for an accelerated visa pathway, free of charge, under the Free Movement Directive. 

All applicants are advised to apply well in advance of their travel date to avoid any delays in processing. Applications can be submitted up to six (6) months before the intended travel date. The latest an application can be submitted for the Schengen tourist visa is 15 days to allow time for processing.  

The Schengen visa cost will vary depending on the age and nationality of the applicant. For all non-EU national adults, the fee is 80€. The fee for children aged 6-12 is 40€. 

Nationals from countries that have visa facilitation agreements such as Armenia, Belarus, and Moldova, must pay 35€. 

Finally, applicants from Cabo Verde will uniquely pay 60€ for their Schengen tourist visa. 

Additional fees may apply depending on where the applicant submits their application documents. Visa application centers in some locations may collect a fee. There will likely be additional costs for printing, taking photographs, or other administrative fees.

No, working, studying, or living in the Schengen Area is not permitted with a Schengen tourist visa. This travel permit is designed for short-term stays for tourism, business, or visiting family for up to 90 days. If you want to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days, you can apply for another visa or permit for the relevant country.

Holders of a Schengen tourist visa are eligible to visit 29 European countries including popular tourist destinations like France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, and Portugal. It also includes non-EU countries like Norway and Iceland. All countries in the Schengen Area allow travelers to move freely within and between their borders.

With a Schengen tourist visa, you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It's important to adhere to this limit to avoid overstaying your visa, which could lead to penalties or difficulties in future travels.

Yes, you can visit multiple Schengen countries with a single tourist visa. The visa allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, so you can visit any of the 29 member countries during your permitted stay. However, it's crucial to specify your main destination when applying for the visa if you plan to visit multiple countries with different durations of stay.

If you hold a valid residence permit issued by one of the Schengen countries, you do not need a Schengen tourist visa for short stays within the Schengen Area. A resident of any Schengen country is free to travel within the Schengen Area without a visa.

Check if you need a visa for your next destination

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Schengen Business Visa Guide

Explore the process of obtaining a Schengen Business Visa

A Schengen Business Visa is required for citizens of countries that have mandatory visa requirements for visits to Europe, and who are traveling with the sole purpose of conducting business. The visa allows you to travel to the Schengen Area countries for business purposes. The process of applying for a Schengen Business Visa is similar to applying for a tourist visa, and you must apply to the consulate or embassy of the country you are planning to visit or a visa application center. You will need to provide additional information and documents, such as a bank statement from your sponsor, a letter from your employer, and proof of financial means. The visa is valid for a single entry or multiple entries, depending on the country you are staying in. It is usually processed within 3-5 weeks, and you should apply at least three weeks before your trip.

Understanding the Schengen Business Visa

The Schengen Business Visa, categorized under the umbrella of Schengen type C visas, extends an open invitation to non-European Union (EU) businesspersons with a vision to immerse themselves in Europe’s thriving business landscape. The visa is a gateway to a plethora of business activities, including pivotal meetings, transformative conferences, trade fairs, and valuable market research endeavors. Moreover, the visa’s versatility enables seamless travel across multiple Schengen countries, eliminating the need for separate visas for each destination.

Differentiating Business and Tourist Schengen Visas

While both the Business Schengen Visa and the Tourist Schengen Visa fall under the type C visa category, they cater to distinct purposes. A Tourist Schengen Visa is designed for leisure and recreational activities such as sightseeing and cultural exploration. Conversely, the Business Schengen Visa is tailored for professionals engaged in business activities like attending conferences, meetings, trade fairs, and other career-oriented ventures.

Meeting the Requirements

Securing a Business Schengen Visa requires meticulous attention to detail in compiling the essential documents. To embark on this journey, applicants need to fulfill the following prerequisites:

Documentation

• Passport: A valid travel document with at least two blank pages for visa stamping and a validity extending three months beyond the intended stay in the Schengen Area.
• Schengen Business Visa Application Form: Carefully complete and sign the application form, available for online submission and download in duplicate copies.
• Business Letter of Invitation: Issued by the host company within the Schengen Area, this letter should detail the purpose, participant’s name, visit dates, and travel expense coverage.
• No Objection Certificate: A letter from the employer or educational institution affirming contractual obligations and the intention to return to the home country.
• Letter from Employer: Providing information about employment, salary, position, partnership details, and travel expense coverage.
• Photograph: Recent, high-quality photograph adhering to Schengen standards.
• Schengen Visa Travel Insurance: A comprehensive insurance policy covering medical emergencies, valid throughout the Schengen Area for the entire stay duration.
• Proof of Paid Schengen Visa Fee: Proof of payment for the visa application.
• Residence Permit (if applicable): Original and copy of a valid residence permit from a non-home country.
• Work Permit (if applicable): Valid work permit for the intended business activities.
• Travel Itinerary: Detailed itinerary outlining the route, accommodation, and planned activities during the stay.
• Means of Subsistence: Evidence of financial stability, such as bank statements for the past three months or sponsorship letters, covering the stay expenses.

Application Process

The journey to acquiring a Business Schengen Visa is orchestrated through a series of strategic steps:

• Embassy Selection: Determine the embassy or consulate of the Schengen country where your primary business activities will take place.
• Appointment Scheduling: Reserve an interview slot through the official website of the relevant consulate or embassy.
• Document Compilation: Collect the necessary documents according to the checklist provided by the embassy.
• Application Form Submission: Fill out the application form meticulously, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Fee Payment: Pay the stipulated visa fee and retain the payment receipt.
• Decision Awaits: Await the embassy’s review of your application and supporting documents.
• Visa Collection: If approved, collect your visa from the embassy or designated visa collection center.

Strategic Tips 

To ensure a smooth journey:

• Understand visa terms.
• Keep documents ready.
• Ensure financial stability.
• Procure comprehensive travel insurance.
• Plan a methodical itinerary.
• Respect cultural norms.
• Stay updated on travel advisories.
• Seek assistance if needed.

Exploring Other Schengen Visa Types

Beyond the Business Schengen Visa, a spectrum of Schengen visa types exists to accommodate diverse travel purposes:

• Tourist Visa: Designed for leisure and recreational activities, including sightseeing, cultural exploration, and holiday experiences.
• Cultural Visa: Catering to individuals participating in cultural events, exhibitions, and artistic endeavors within the Schengen Area.
• Transit Visa: Facilitating seamless transit through the Schengen countries for individuals en route to a non-Schengen destination.
• Visitor Visa: Enabling visits to family members, friends, or loved ones residing within the Schengen Area.
• Medical Visa: Catering to those seeking medical treatment or procedures within the Schengen territory.

The Schengen Business Visa offers opportunities for global entrepreneurs to tap into Europe’s business potential. Its provisions and opportunities reflect the interconnectedness of today’s global business landscape, promising collaboration, expansion, and professional advancement.

What are the requirements of a Schengen family visa?

Application Form: Complete and sign the Schengen visa application form. Passport: A valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen territory. Photograph: Recent passport-size color photograph. Documents proving family relationship: Such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or other relevant documents. Proof of accompanying or joining the EU citizen: Evidence that you will accompany or join the EU citizen in the host country. Proof of residence: ID or driver’s license from specific states within the consular district. Proof of financial means: Demonstrating sufficient financial means for the entire duration of stay. Travel health insurance: Coverage for medical reasons, repatriation, and emergency healthcare with a minimum of €30,000. Proof of return: Documents showing intention to return to your home country after the trip.

It is important to note that visa applications must be submitted between 6 months and 15 days before the planned travel date, and biometric data may be collected during the application process.

What documents are required for a Schengen work visa?

Schengen Visa Application Form: Fully completed and signed twice. Passport: Valid passport with at least two blank pages and valid for at least 6 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen territory. Photograph: Recent passport-size color photograph. Proof of Paid Fee: Receipt of the visa fee payment. Proof of Employment: Letter from your employer stating your monthly wages, continuing employment after the period of leave, and duration of vacation. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement of your financial movements for the last three months. Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation or proof of staying with a relative or friend. Travel/Health/Accident Insurance: A one-page document stating that you are covered by a Schengen Travel Medical Insurance with a minimum medical coverage of €30,000 for all medical expenses, including repatriation dead or alive. Round Trip Reservation or Itinerary: With dates and flight numbers specifying entry and exit from the Schengen state. Proof of Payment of the Visa Fee: Receipt of the visa fee payment.

Please note that these are the basic requirements, and each Schengen member country may have additional requirements. It is also important to submit the documents in accordance with the visa documentation guidelines, which include original copies of documents, translations into English or the official language of the Member State, and apostille stamps for certain documents.

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• Schengen Visa Types

How long is the Schengen visa valid?

Schengen visas have a limited validity period, which depends on the trip’s purpose and the visa category itself. The Schengen states issue short- and long-stay visas.

A short-stay visa is issued to a foreigner for the first trip to one of the countries of the agreement. A long-stay visa can be issued to those who have visited Schengen several times and have not violated visa requirements. But the decision is always made by the embassy of the country where the applicant applies.

If a Schengen visa is issued for up to 5 years, this does not indicate the possibility of staying in the Schengen states for all 5 years. The validity period of a visa and the length of stay in countries are different concepts.

The duration of stay in the Schengen Area also depends on the visa type ― up to a maximum of 90 days every 180 days. For example, if a visa is issued for five years, a foreigner can enter the region as many times as they want. The main thing is not to stay in the Schengen Area for more than 90 days within 180 days.

To avoid confusion about validity terms and stay terms, we are presenting the Schengen visa types in the table below.

A Schengen visa is pasted into a foreign passport and is often called a visa sticker. The visa has a special hologram, which is forgery protection.

The sticker contains information about the owner and the country that issued the visa. The visa validity area, validity period, duration of stay, and purpose of the visit must be specified.

A visa is required for all citizens of countries not part of the Schengen Area. There are exceptions: citizens of countries with which an agreement on visa-free entry to the Schengen Area was signed. For example, countries like Cyprus, Grenada, and Dominica.

Foreigners receive a visa at the embassies and consulates of the member states of the Schengen agreement. If the applicant plans to visit more than one country, it is recommended to submit documents to the representative office of the Schengen state where they will spend the most time.

With a Schengen visa, you can travel to Austria, Belgium, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

The visa also allows you to visit countries that are:

• candidates to join the European Union — Albania, Romania, Macedonia, Cyprus, and Bulgaria. 
• de facto belong to the Schengen Area due to the peculiarities of their location ― Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City and San Marino.

However, if a foreigner is travelling with a single-entry visa, they will not be able to use it to return to the territory of a Schengen Area state.

Three types of the Schengen visa depending on the purpose of your trip:

• Uniform Schengen visa (USV);
• Limited territorial visa (LTV);
• National visa.

A visa type depends on the visit’s purpose and the stay’s duration. All types are indicated by the letters: A, C, and D .

Type A visa ― transit, Type C ― short-stay, allows you to stay in the Schengen states for up to 90 days within six months. Type D visa is a national visa issued for a longer stay in a Schengen country, for example, to study.

Validity periods of the visa are limited and depend on the purpose of the trip and the category. For example, a transit visa is issued for up to 2 days. The maximum validity period of a Schengen visa is 5 years. Specialists of the embassy and consulate decide on the deadline.

The duration of stay in the Schengen states is limited : foreigners can stay in the agreement countries for up to 90 days every 180 days. You will need to obtain a national Type D visa for a longer stay.

“A visa sticker” is a Schengen visa’s second name. The visa itself is pasted into the passport. Each sticker contains a unique hologram that confirms the authenticity of the visa.

The sticker must contain information about the owner and the country that issued the visa. The details are the country and city of issuance, visa validity area, validity period and duration of stay, as well as the purpose of the visit.

The visa is issued to citizens from countries outside the Schengen Area.

There are exceptions for the countries that have signed an agreement on visa-free entry with the Schengen Area. Citizens of these countries do not need to obtain a Schengen visa, for instance, Cypriots, Grenadians or Montenegrins.

Foreigners apply for a visa at the consulate of one of the Schengen states. Documents are submitted to the country’s consulate, where the longest stay is planned during the first trip.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad

Travelling to the EU and Schengen area

You do not need a visa for short trips to the EU or countries in the Schengen area if both of the following apply:

• you’re staying for 90 days or less in a 180-day period
• you’re visiting as a tourist or for certain other reasons

Other reasons include:

• studying a short course
• getting medical treatment
• travelling for business for your UK employer, for example to attend a business meeting or conference
• journalism or other media activities

Check the entry requirements of the country you’re visiting to find out what you can and cannot do during your stay.

These rules do not apply to travelling and working in Ireland .

Travelling to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period

You can travel to more than one country in a 180-day period. How long you can stay in each country depends on whether or not it’s in the Schengen area.

The countries in the Schengen area are:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Your total stay in the Schengen area must be no more than 90 days in every 180 days. It does not matter how many countries you visit. The 180-day period keeps ‘rolling’.

To work out if your stay is within the 90 day limit, use the following steps.

Check the date you plan to leave the Schengen area on your next trip.

Count back 180 days from that date to get the start of the 180-day period.

Add up the number of days you have already spent in the Schengen area in that 180-day period (you can use the dates stamped in your passport showing when you entered and left a country).

Work out how many days you will spend in the Schengen area on your next trip. Add this number to the number of days you worked out in step 3.

Check that the total number of days is not more than 90.

Travelling to Cyprus

Cyprus is not in the Schengen area. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period in Cyprus without a visa.

Any time you spend in the Schengen area does not affect the number of days you can spend in Cyprus.

When you may need a visa

​​You may need a visa or permit if you want to either:

• stay for more than 90 days

If you’re travelling for work, check the rules for the country you’re visiting .

If you’re travelling for another reason or staying longer than 90 days, check the entry requirements for the country you’re visiting .

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List of top 10 easiest countries to get a Schengen visa

Panchali Dey Panchali Dey / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated : Jun 22, 2024, 12:01 IST

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Well, since the summer in Europe often extends beyond August and can last as late as October, one can start planning ahead. If you go by the reports of Schengen Visa Statistics, you will find a variance in visa rejection rates amo … Read more

Well, since the summer in Europe often extends beyond August and can last as late as October, one can start planning ahead. If you go by the reports of Schengen Visa Statistics, you will find a variance in visa rejection rates among different countries. Applying to countries with lower rejection rates can enhance an applicant's chances of success. Read less

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Schengen Visa Fee increased as of 11 June 2024

Every three years, the Commission assesses the need for revising the visa fees and according to the Visa Code can increase them based on a list of “objective criteria”. This includes Euro area annual inflation rate and the average salary of a civil servant in EU countries.

As of 11 June 2024 , the fee for a Schengen visa has raised from EUR 80 to EUR 90 for adults and from EUR 40 to EUR 45 for children aged six to below 12 years. The fee for nationals of Cabo Verde under the corresponding visa facilitation agreement has increased from EUR 60 to EUR 67,50. Visa fees under other visa facilitation agreements remain the same EUR 35. 

The income generated through visa applications will be reinvested into making available more resources, including staff for processing visa applications. This should decrease the waiting time for appointments for a Schengen visa.

Figures published by the European Commission show that the consulates of EU countries and Schengen associated countries received more than 10.3 million applications for short-stay visas in 2023. This is a 37% increase compared to 2022 (7.5 million).

Find out more

Visa applications reach 10.3 million in EU- and Schengen Associated Countries

Visa policy

Applying for a Schengen visa

The Schengen area explained

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Will a 12% fee hike in Schengen Visa impact travel patterns globally?

The fee for adults rises from 80 euros to 90 euros, while children aged 6 to 12 will now pay 45 euros, up from 40 euros. children under 6 remain exempt.

• Updated Jun 15, 2024, 2:33 PM IST

He pointed out that for most travellers, the cost of a trip to the Schengen area far exceeds the incremental visa fee increase. "A trip to Schengen overall will cost north of 2000 Euros. So in the grand scheme of things, the incremental cost is very marginal."

He further emphasised instead of a fee hike, other factors have a more substantial impact on travel decisions and destinations than visa fees. "What does affect the travel destination choice and has continued to plague travellers looking to visit Schengen are the high refusal rates, with often arbitrary and ambiguous reasons for rejection, and the lack of visa appointments making it very challenging for travellers to secure visas within their desired timelines."

Regarding recent reforms, Nahta noted some positive changes: "The new cascade system introduced by Schengen is a step in the right direction. The cascade system will make it possible for travelers to apply for visas less frequently and therefore make the process much cheaper and less arduous in the longer run for frequent travelers."

He however, pointed out that there will not be a decline in tourist numbers applying to visit the Schengen region.

The European Commission justified the fee hike citing inflation and rising civil worker wages, following a review mandated by the Schengen Visa Code every three years. The previous increase in visa fees occurred in February 2020, when fees rose from 60 euros to 80 euros.

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Indian travellers can visit these 10 non-Schengen nations with a Schengen visa: Check full list

Y ou may already be familiar with the doors a multiple-entry Schengen visa opens to 29 countries in the Schengen Zone, 25 of which are EU member states.

The participating countries include Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

However, did you know that this travel visa can also unlock access to not just 29 but 67 countries worldwide for Indian adventurers? From stunning beaches to bustling cities, the possibilities are endless. However, it should be noted that visa rules can change very quickly, so one should always double-check before takeoff. For instance, the cost of a short-stay Schengen visa has increased internationally by 12 per cent, according to the European Commission.

Here are a few non-Schengen nations Indian travellers can visit with a Schengen Visa:

1. Mexico :

- A valid Schengen visa allows for entry into Mexico for purposes of tourism, business, or transit.

- Visitors must present both their visas and passports upon entry to Mexico. 

2. Colombia :

- Visitors from certain nations with a Schengen or US visa can enter Colombia visa-free.

- Colombia's diverse landscapes and rich culture provide attractions like Cartagena, Bogotá, the coffee region, and the Amazon rainforest.

3. Turkey :

- Indian passport holders with a valid Schengen visa can apply for a single-entry e-visa for one month via the official Turkish e-visa website.

- Turkey offers a unique mix of cultures, historical landmarks like Hagia Sophia, and vibrant cities such as Istanbul and Ankara.

4. Georgia :

- Holders of Schengen visas can enter Georgia visa-free for 90 days within 180 days, except for nationals from Kosovo, Taiwan, and Palestine.

- Georgia offers a mix of natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant city life.

5. Serbia :

- Entry and stay up to 90 days within a six-month period with a valid Schengen visa.

- Serbia offers vibrant city life in Belgrade and stunning natural retreats in national parks like Tara and Djerdap.

6. Belarus :

- A visa-free entry is available if you hold a flight ticket to depart from specific Belarusian airports.

- The visa-free stay in Belarus is for 30 days and cannot be extended beyond that period.

7. Saudi Arabia :

- Travellers can obtain a visa on arrival by presenting a used Schengen visa, allowing a 90-day stay within 365 days.

- Saudi Arabia offers modern cities, ancient archaeological sites, and unique experiences in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al-Ula.

- Travelers can obtain a single-entry visa for 30 days within three months with a valid Schengen visa.

- Egypt is rich in history and culture, home to ancient pyramids, the Nile River, Cairo, Luxor, and the Red Sea beaches.

- A valid multiple-entry Schengen visa allows for a stay of 30 days, not exceeding 180 days per year.

- Aruba offers white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and attractions like Oranjestad and Eagle Beach.

10. Montenegro :

- Travelers with a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa can stay in Montenegro for up to 30 days, with a yearly limit of 180 days.

- Montenegro is known for its rugged mountains, medieval villages, and attractions like the Bay of Kotor and Durmitor National Park.

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Golden Visas: Latvia and Portugal residency programs for entrepreneurs and investors

Portugal is attracting entrepreneurs and business owners through its d2 visa, making european residency programs more accessible..

By Varun Singh

In an era of global mobility and economic interconnectedness, the concept of residency-by-investment programs, colloquially known as ‘Golden Visas’, has gained significant traction. Traditionally associated with high-net-worth individuals and seasoned investors, these programs have long been the domain of those able to invest millions in foreign real estate or government bonds.

However, a seismic shift is occurring in the landscape of European residency options, with countries like Latvia and Portugal pioneering more accessible pathways for entrepreneurs and smaller-scale investors.

The concept of Golden Visas has been a fixture in European immigration policy for over a decade, with countries like Portugal and Spain leading the charge. These programs typically required substantial investments, often in the realm of €500,000 to €2 million, primarily in real estate. According to a report by the European Parliament, between 2011 and 2019, over 132,000 individuals acquired residency or citizenship in EU countries through investment schemes, generating an estimated €21.4 billion in foreign direct investment.

Latvia’s Investor Residency Program

Latvia’s Investor Residency Program represents a paradigm shift in the realm of investment migration. With an entry point of just €50,000, it stands as one of the most affordable routes to EU residency. This program is specifically tailored to attract entrepreneurs and startups , aligning with Latvia’s vision of becoming a hub for innovation in the Baltic region.

Investment Amount : A minimum investment of €50,000 in the share capital of Latvian companies.

Government Fee: A one-time payment of €10,000 to the Latvian government.

Process : Investors sign an agreement with a Latvian company and transfer the investment via bank transfer.

Residency Benefits : The permit grants rights to work, reside, and travel freely within the Schengen Area.

Family Inclusion : The residency permit extends to family members, including spouses and dependent children.

Duration: The initial permit is valid for 5 years, with the possibility of renewal.

The impact of this program is already being felt. In 2022, Latvia saw a 27% increase in foreign direct investment compared to the previous year, with a significant portion attributed to the new residency scheme. The Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) reports that over 200 new startups have been established by foreign entrepreneurs since the program’s inception, contributing an estimated €100 million to the Latvian economy .

Portugal’s D2 Visa

While Portugal has moved away from its traditional Golden Visa program, the country has doubled down on attracting entrepreneurs and business owners through its D2 Visa. This program offers a compelling alternative for those seeking EU residency through business investment and entrepreneurship.

Investment Amount : While there’s no fixed minimum, investments typically start around €250,000.

Business Plan: Applicants must present a viable business plan for a new or existing Portuguese company.

Job Creation : The business should demonstrate potential for job creation in Portugal.

Residency Benefits : The D2 Visa provides a path to permanent residency and citizenship after 5 years.

Tax Benefits : Portugal’s Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offers significant tax advantages for new residents.

The D2 Visa program has been a catalyst for Portugal’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. According to Startup Portugal, the country saw a 26% increase in the number of new startups in 2022, with foreign entrepreneurs accounting for nearly 20% of founders. Notable success stories include Unbabel, an AI-powered translation platform that raised $60 million in Series C funding, and Feedzai, a fintech company valued at over $1 billion.

The Current Landscape of Investment Migration

The global market for investment migration is estimated to be worth over $21 billion annually, with projections suggesting growth to $100 billion by 2025 (Investment Migration Insider, 2023). Experts predict that by 2030, up to 25% of high-net-worth individuals will hold a second passport or residency permit, driven by these evolving programs (Knight Frank Wealth Report, 2023).

The emergence of affordable Golden Visa alternatives in countries like Latvia and Portugal marks a significant evolution in the realm of investment migration. These programs are democratising access to EU residency, opening doors for entrepreneurs and smaller-scale investors who were previously priced out of traditional Golden Visa schemes. With investments starting as low as €50,000, these new pathways are fostering innovation, job creation, and economic diversification across Europe.

As the global landscape of mobility continues to shift, driven by factors such as remote work, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainties, the demand for flexible residency options is likely to grow. Countries that offer accessible, entrepreneur-friendly programs stand to benefit from an influx of talent, capital, and ideas. For prospective investors and entrepreneurs, these evolving residency schemes present unprecedented opportunities to establish a foothold in the European market, enjoy the benefits of EU residency, and potentially pave the way to citizenship.

(Author is MD, XIPHIAS Immigration)

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